Busy Week Sees 6 Live Events

A relatively slow start to the week with just an Open Mic event in the Bulls Head, soon gathers pace as we approach Wednesday. Just around the corner from the Star (hosting a Vinyl night), the Kings Arms introduces Time at 9pm. The Lincoln Arms takes over the mantle on Friday night with Open Mic sessions from 8.30pm. On Friday, be prepared to rock as Bright White play a live session at The Spotted Dog at 8.30pm. Entertainment hungry punters then have until Sunday to decide whether to opt for some jazz and blues from The Fabulous Straubenzee at the Spotted Dog at 3.30pm, get involved in Objayda originals and covers at The Kings Arms from 9pm, or stay on the Blues train to enjoy No Nonsense in The Old House At Home at the same time. West Street normally becomes somewhat of a railway crossing when these two pubs collide, giving customers opportunity to roam between the two venues in ten or so paces. Live music will be pretty difficult to miss this week...unless of course, you stay in.

Three Live Acts for The Weekend

Its horses for courses this weekend, with a variety of music styles. Jo Hall is the first to play at The Star, West Street at 8.30 pm on Saturday 4th December. A London based singer / songwriter, Jo's music is acoustic Jazz and Soul, with influences from Joni Mitchell, Joan Armatrading, India Armie and Steve Wonder to more contemporary artists such as Amy Winehouse.

Rhythm and style moves from guitar to piano on Sunday afternoon, as Andy Duerden takes to the stage in The Spotted Dog, South Street at 3.30pm. Duerden's music can be described as modern musical poetry. His gentle and regularly intricate piano pieces are met with a sharp and moving powerful vocal that encourages the listener to fall into his songs and find meaning in them.

Last, but by no means least, Jinn House take over the Kings Arms, West Street, on Sunday at 9, blasting out energy packed rock and blues originals and covers. This three piece, formed 20 years ago, have been regular acquaintance's  at the Kings and tend to draw a hefty crowd. They are an exciting band to watch and shouldn't be missed.

Dorking Benefits Four Bands for Sunday

Most other market towns cannot dream to compete with the latest live music offering in Dorking on Sunday. Whilst most towns remain quiet at the end of the weekend, local artists continue to thrive bringing live music throughout Sunday from the afternoon to the early hours.

This week saw the Star thrashing out an impromptu gig at 3pm, which ran almost concurrently with local duo Bricks Build Houses playing an acoustic set at The Spotted Dog from 3.30pm until 6pm. The journey continued at The Kings Arms at 9pm, with Stone Free, with an additional mix of acoustic and indie rock from The Dusky Blonde Lulus at the Old House At Home - also from 9pm, finishing at midnight.

Lovers of live music were truly spoiled with choice as four live acts filled the day with a short break in the early evening. There's still more to come with no less than EIGHT live events this week. The Bulls Head Open Mic starts if all off on Monday at 9pm, followed by an Open Mic from 8.30pm on Tuesday at The Falkland Arms. Franz Black play at the Kings Arms this Wednesday at 9pm, and The Star offers 15 minute live slots from 8pm on Thursday. On Saturday, Jo Hall returns to play at The Star from 8.30pm, Andy Duerden hosts his live gig at Spotted Dog at 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon, and Jinn House close the weekend at the Kings Arms from 9pm.

Entertainment Variety for Thirsty Thursday

For some, the weekend just can't come around quick enough, and for many, Thursday marks the real end of the week. And, for those that want to kick start the weekend early, Dorking offers a plethora of options ranging from traditional pub games to karaoke discos and even gambling for the strong willed. Residents and visitors alike are quite literally spoiled for choice!

For the traditionalists, there's a pub quiz at the Bulls Head on South Street, covering sport, art, history, music and the latest news. Starting at 8pm, this quiz attracts a big crowd with a lot of friendly heckling when the scores come about! The Lincoln Arms, Station Approach, provides a free pool evening where customers can test their cuing action on either of the two fast pool tables in the main bar until midnight. For the slightly hardened gambler, The Queens Head on The Horsham Road hosts Texas Hold 'Em Poker from 8pm, with £5 and £10 entry knockouts. There's usually 2 games a night, winner takes all. Open Mic attracts a varied and busy crowd at The Star on West Street, and for those that want to test their vocal chords, a disco and Karaoke is laid on at West Street's Old House At Home which closes at midnight.

Its different horses for different courses on a Thursday, but there's enough going on in town to entertain even the fussiest of decision makers!

Sunday Offers Double Music Treat

A lazy Sunday afternoon can quite literally turn into a long day out featuring local musical talent this weekend. Two solo artists highly regarded on Open Mic nights have hooked up with their bands to perform on the same day. The action starts at 3.30pm at The Spotted Dog in South Street with "Bricks Build Houses", the result of an amalgamation between Nick Thurtell & Ryan Williams. The duo present a relevant yet classic set that feature songs designed to bring a smile to even the glummest of punters. Those that have heard Nick at Open Mic Events will already know that Nicks songs are delivered with emotions and grit that is truly empathic to the originals. With the addition of Ryan, their acoustic versions gain a richness scarcely heard on the pub circuit and feature luscious vocal harmonies that will enhance and delight.

Later, at 9pm, The Old House At Home opens its doors to the familiar "Dusky Blonde Lulus", a band, formed in 2005. This local three piece mix both heavy and light harmonies with groove driven bass producing their own individual progressive indie / rock sound. Varying styles make up the group - subtle lyrics on vocal are joined with melodic lead guitar riffs to create the main sound, but with the addition of hard hitting bass rythm and energetic, tight and powerful drum routines, "Dusky Blonde Lulus" come to life as an exciting and entertaining live act. The set, switching between dub, indie and acoustic tracks showcases the individual talents of each band member and provides a wide range of styles to suit all tastes.

For some it will be a difficult choice to choose which to see of the two, but for real music lovers, the choice is simple. Both.

Musical Talent Fills Week

A surge of talent landed on Dorking this week, covering all kinds of musical genre. Not a single day passed without a live music event somewhere in town. The week started with another fantastic array of performers with a mix of piano and guitar at the regular Open Mic slot at the The Bulls Head on Monday. The Open Mic tradition continued to flow at The Falkland Arms, which now hosts Open Mic every Tuesday. Groovesonic appeared at The Star on the same night, playing a mixed style reminiscent of both Louisianna jazz and Brasilian Samba. Music fanatics indulged further on Wednesday with the regular Wednesday Live event held at the Kings Arms.

There was little time to rest as The Star opened its doors on Thursday with a full and varied schedule including rap, rock, blues and soul. The Spotted Dog was host to the musical chords on Friday with an impromptu event from a local covers band. Those with any energy left enjoyed Secret Urge at The Bulls Head on Saturday, playing covers from the likes of The Zutons, U2, Bon Jovi, Kings Of Leon and Feeder to name but a few.  And it doesn't end there. The Kings Arms has more to come on Sunday evening, and as we enter a new week, its going to be just as busy. Keep an eye on the Dorking Events calendar to be sure you don't miss out.

Dorking Enjoys Packed Live Week

Every once in a while, a tidal wave of live music sweeps Dorking, and this week is one of them. Starting on Monday 15th with an Open Mic night at The Bulls Head in South Street, the week opens up to live bands playing nearly every day. The Star hosts its regular 3rd Tuesday Live, with 5 piece Groovesonic knocking out Funk, Jazz and Backbeat on the16th. There's an Open Mic on the same day at The Falkland Arms for those that like a varied set from the likes of  Tom Lawrenson and Dan Henwood, Marc Fisher and Nick Thurtell amongst others. The Kings Arms follows with its regular Wednesday live slot. The Star continues to entertain with 15 minute Open Mic slots on Thursday 18th and for once, Friday becomes a day of rest. Its all off again on Saturday 20th though, as The Bulls Head presents Secret Urge, playing covers from the Foo Fighters to The Zutons, Killers, U2 and King Of Leon to name a few. The Kings Arms closes the week on Sunday with another live band to be announced.

Open Mic Fever Spreads

The ever increasing talented musician population of Dorking continues to grow. Its great news, as local venues are finding Open Mic Nights an important addition to their weekly schedules. The loss of Open Mic at The Old House At Home hasn't put it to rest. Slowly, but surely, Open Mic events have started to spring up all over town. The first in the week is Mondays at The Bulls Head. This relaxed night with a 'student' feel plays host to guitarists and pianists alike. The New Kid on the Block is the Falkland Arms every Tuesday. The pub attracts violinists, keyboard artists, guitarists and even more quirky acts that rustle up dance through ipods linked to the PA. The Star, being the longest runner continues to attract the larger slice of the cake on Thursday, with regulars frequenting every week. The great thing is, each Open Mic has its own character and style. Its well worth trying out these weekday nights out to find the venue that suits your taste and surroundings.

Halloween Creeps Into Dorking

Its that time of year again - when the eerie screams of tortured souls unleash terror amongst us all... Spook up your weekend and join in the party on Saturday and Sunday. There's events all over town - most are fancy dress, so use your imagination! The Star plays host to a Gothic Cabaret - with stage acts, music and freak sideshows. There's electrifying live music from The Hurricanes at The Falkland Arms and Roadkill at The Spotted Dog. The Bulls Head is hosting a blood curdling Karaoke evening, and the Kings Arms invites ghouls, witches and warlocks to The Dusky Blonde Lulus Halloween Party. The Old House At Home has live music from No Nonsense and there's more shenanigans at The Lincoln Arms with a disco, party games and spooky drinks. For more information, and to view the whole schedule, head to http://www.dorkingevents.webs.com/halloween.htm.

Huge Success For Oxjam Event

The Star celebrated this weekend with a day long Oxjam event all organised by people who know and love their local music scene.

As part of Oxfam’s month-long music festival, the Star had the privilege to join  with hundreds of events around the UK. The turnout was fantastic, with 14 acts playing from mid-day to mid-night.

The first Oxjam festival took place in October 2006. Since then more than 36,000 musicians have played to over 750,000 people at around 3,000 Oxjam events nationwide. These diverse local music events
have created the UK’s biggest festival line-up and 2010 is bigger and better than ever! The idea is that everyone has a good time as well as raising funds for Oxfam's vital work.

The day kicked off with Wicataeo, which were followed by Under Souled, The Art Of Reason, Allan Bailey, Tim Mudd, Nick Thurtell, Sarah Jane Weston, Passive Attack, Buddah Pest, Awkward Arm, Jen Mudd, MelonHeadMan, The Soultanas and the Eclectix. Bar staff were on hand to serve quickly and efficiently and a huge spread of snacks were provided for the night. Using The Star's in house PA system, switching acts took seconds, providing a smoothly operated 12 hour extravaganza. Anyone who missed this event definitely  missed out. But the good news is that Oxjam is very likely to return next year. If you missed it this time, keep an eye on the Dorking Events website and blog.

Open Mic Tonight (22nd Oct) The Lincoln Arms

This weekend kicks off with an Open Mic session at The Lincoln Arms. If you fancy playing along, bring a guitar, keyboard, a band, your singing voice or even an audience and join in. A PA system provided with some local talent to get things started....and the usual bargain drinks deals are available for all...

Oxjam Music Festival at The Star

As part of the Oxjam month-long music festival with hundreds of events around the UK, A day of music is being held at The Star, Dorking on the 23rd October 2010. Bands of all shapes & sizes will be playing from 12.15pm to close. Artists include Wicatao, Under Souled, The Art Of Reason, Allan Bailey, Tim Mudd, Nick Thurtell, Sarah Jane Weston, Passive Attack, Buddah Pest, Awkward Arm, Jen Mudd, MelonHeadMan, The Soultanas and the Eclectix. The idea is that everyone has a good time as well as raising funds for Oxfam’s vital work. For more details, go to The Star Event Page.

U2 Tribute Band - Tonight, The Kings Arms

If you are looking for entertainment, why not try Blood Red Sky at the Kings Arms tonight. Blood Red Sky are a U2 tribute band based in North Hampshire.
The band has performed shows all over the UK and are starting to attract interest from overseas. Their show is a visually effective full production affair with backdrop, full lighting show and a 5k PA rig. The band has performed to stadium audiences countrywide and will definitely not disappoint! 
For all forthcoming events, just head for the calendar.

The Falkland Arms Brings Music To Your Ears

The Falkland Arms, taken over by Landlords Gary & Chrissie Broom in August 2009 has been transformed over the year to become a friendly family pub where all are welcome for real ale, great food and a traditonal Sunday Lunch.


There's is always a friendly face and a warm welcome behind the bar and the new bright image spreads a relaxing glow throughout. Gary and Chrissie are renowned for hosting weddings to birthdays and christenings to wakes, but for regular weekday evening events they have something special up their sleeves.

The weekly pub quiz every Wednesday is already a big hit with the locals. It is even attracting people from further afield. The entrance fee is £6 (per person), with £1 going into the winners pot and £5 going on a curry.

And at the start of October, a new event was added to the schedule - A weekly Open Mic Night every Tuesday. On its debut, performers turned up from miles around to play on the PA system provided. Music styles ranged from Hip Hop created live through iPhone keyboard emulators to Irish Jigs, Modern Classics and accoustic guitar solos. Anything goes at this quirky event. Its like no other Open Mic Night.

The Falkland Arms boasts a beautiful walled garden where you can enjoy one of the finest settings in Surrey with all your friends, two separate bars, a host of lagers and beers on tap, delicious wines, lunch every day of the week and evening meals from Thursday to Saturday.

Food served daily from 12-2.00, Evening meals Thursday-Saturday from 7.00-9.00.

For more information, please visit The Falkland Arms website.

New Karaoke and Disco at The Old House At Home

Weekly entertainment is hotting up in Dorking and weekdays are becoming just as popular as weekends. The Old House At Home is the latest bar to lighten up the week, adding a Karaoke and Disco to its weekly schedule. Enjoy a disco and Karaoke every Thursday, with a late bar closing at midnight. There's also a whole host of new beers including Grolsh, Peroni and Stella Artois on tap. Go to the main web page at Dorking Events to see regular events at a glance. Or view all events in the Dorking Events Calendar.

Oktoberfest comes to Dorking

The Cricketers Dorking celebrated Oktoberfest again this year with a host of ales from Friday 1st October until Sunday 3rd October. The impressive range of over 15 different ales all selling at £3 a pint included Smoked Porter, Indian Pale Ale, London Pride, three Hogsback ales,  American Pale Ale, Oktoberfest, Hophead, Dark Star and Golden Gate to name but a few. For those that missed the event... you only have to wait 363 days.

Lincoln Arms launches Sunday Events

The Lincoln Arms has begun this Autumn by introducing two new events for Sundays. With a film night showing a varied range on their big screen and karaoke night switching on alternate weekends, there is now even more choice for a Sunday night out if you are looking for entertainment. To find out which of the two events are on this week, take a look at the Dorking Events calendar.

Courtyard Cafe Bar Promises Live Events

The Courtyard Cafe Bar continues to promise live music events - with most catering for lovers of blues and jazz, it is quite possible that other styles of music are in the offings. The latest gig introduces The Dene Street Brothers on Saturday 28th August. Tickets are £3 to cover costs. As well as live music, the evening offers a light food menu, cocktails, beer and wine to enjoy whilst in the company of this local Blues band.

Event Entries Gather Pace

With the event calendar only 8 weeks old, it has amassed hundreds of entertainment entries. With several dates added by The Kings Arms, visitors can now see which bands are playing on Wednesdays and Sundays every week until the end of November. Other contributions from The Spotted Dog, Little Dudley House, South Street Wine Bar and The Lincoln Arms has really opened up choices for the local community, with many discovering that mid week entertainment offers more choice than the weekend.

Local Venues Welcome Fresh Approach

Ian Renshaw, Landlord of The Star, West Street, Dorking was the first to be listed on Dorking Events. With his entertainment schedule running on a weekly basis, with additional events scheduled every third week of the month, once a month and even one off events, the flexibility of the Dorking Events calendar was ideal. Within weeks of the launch, other venues saw the benefits and welcomed the site. With the venues directory now listing 24 venues, only a handful are yet to be listed.  

Courtyard Cafe Bar Ramps up Exposure

Probably the best kept secret in Dorking, the Courtyard Cafe Bar offers a friendly and quaint cafe during the day and a mellow and sophisticated bar by night! Whilst the cafe is well established and very popular, its still early days for the bar with most people in Dorking not even realising that it is even open in the evenings yet. To resolve this, The Cafe Bar is launching a programme of events throughout the summer and beyond - all advertised on  Dorking Events.

The Surrey Yeoman Celebrates Refurbishment

The Surrey Yeoman opened its doors again today after a one week closure to fully refurbish the complete pub. The warm colour scheme is complimented with new furniture throughout and walls adorned with local photography. With wash rooms fully redocorated including sleek modern sinks, a new DJ booth and a refurbished bar area, the Surrey Yeoman has been completely refreshed. Changes are visible outside too - with brass plated window sills, a new sign and black entrance. The beer garden is now complimented with a new terrace area with neat flower arrangements in half barrel displays. This is a stark change to the former tired look of the pub, which has gone down well with local residents as the Surrey Yeoman now sees a re-growth in patrionage.

Live Sunday Events at The Spotted Dog

The Spotted Dog has listed a host of events covering the next two months on the Dorking Events calendar. This has offered even more choice for entertainment to the local community. Most events advertised are for live bands playing at the Spotted Dog on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons. Local events at the Spotted Dog can be found on the calendar.

Dorking Events Launches Events Site

Dorking Events launches its website today bringing local music and venues together. This free site provides the local community with an events calendar, artist and band directory and a venue directory.  Anyone who joins can add any event to the calendar. Whats more, visitors can check out and listen to artists & bands playing at local venues by visiting the band directory. Bars and venues can also be added to be seen on the bars & venues page. The aim of the site is to both promote local talent and to provide up to date information to the local community who are looking for entertainment without the fuss of trawling the web.